Doppler-resolution-limited diode laser spectra are obtained for two Q branches in the $\nu_{2} + \nu_{7}$ ``hot” band series of $C_{3}O_{2}$: the $3\nu_{7}{^{1f}} + \nu_{2} \leftarrow 2 \nu_{7}{^{O}}$ transition at $849.81\, cm^{-1}$ and the $4\nu_{7}{^{o}} + \nu_{2} \leftarrow 3\nu_{7}^{1f}$ transition at $865.85\, cm^{-1}$. Analysis of the latter of these indicates an anomalous centrifugal distortion term for the $4\nu_{7}{^{o}} + \nu_{2}$ state, leading to a band head in the Q branch.